Ocular Disease Treatment

Cataracts, Glaucoma, Macular Degeneration, Diabetes

Cataracts: The natural lens in the eye gradually becomes less clear as we get older. When opacities develop in the lens and the lens gets too hazy, vision will be impaired. Our office can diagnose and manage cataract care. When the cataract affects the vision to the extent that you cannot read or see distant objects comfortably, we will recommend cataract surgery. Our office co-manages with trusted surgeons that are proven experts in cataract surgery. Cataract surgery can provide you with a bright new world of vision.

Glaucoma: Glaucoma gradually destroys the optic nerve tissue in the back of the eye. The greatest danger of glaucoma stems from the fact that the disease is painless and without obvious symptoms until significant damage has occurred. The most common cause is from pressure being too high inside the eye, but vascular disease and other diseases can also cause glaucoma. We always monitor for glaucoma during routine eye examinations. Tests include checking the pressure of the eye, screening for peripheral vision defects and analyzing the appearance of the optic nerve. Retinal photos taken during the exam allow us to compare the eye over time to detect early signs of glaucoma. If you are diagnosed with glaucoma, we typically prescribe medications that lower the eye pressure. Most forms of glaucoma are successfully treated with eye drops. Laser treatments and eye surgery are secondary treatments that offer alternative ways to treat more advanced glaucoma.

Macular Degeneration: Macular degeneration is one of the leading causes of blindess in the United States. It is more prevalent in Caucasian women, those with blue eyes, fair complexion, a history of smoking, sun exposure and high cholesterol. The central part of the retina which provides detailed and color vision gradually degenerates, resulting in poor central vision. This can lead to a blind spot or distortion in the center of one’s vision. Depending on its cause, there may be treatment available to improve and prevent further vision loss. Our retinal photos performed during eye exam and retinal imaging equipment allows for early detection. In more severe cases, we will comanage you with a trusted and experienced retinal specialist.

Diabetes: Diabetic patients should have a dilated retinal examination each year. Laser treatments have proven to slow the progression of retinal eye disease for many patients. Diabetes often stimulates the growth of new blood vessels in the back of the eye, which ultimately leak and damage the retina. If this condition is discovered early, laser treatment can destroy these vessels. We have the latest instruments used to detect changes in the back of the eye. If we discover advancing diabetic eye disease that can be treated or needs further evaluation, we will refer you for consultation and further testing to a board certified retinal specialist.